Chemical disaster management: Current status and perspectives

Abstract

Analysis of major chemical accidents has exhibited deficiencies like laxity towards safety measures, non-conformance to techno-legal systems and lesser public consultation. A paradigm shift has occurred in government’s focus from rescue, relief, restoration-centric approach to planning, prevention/mitigation and preparedness approach. The designing of safer engineering practices, standard operating procedures, well-rehearsed on/off-site emergency plans, community awareness, resource and risk inventory built up, training, education, capacity built up, are important practices that may eventually help in development of community mindset to bravely face disasters so as to reduce their impact. This review summarizes existing concept of chemical (industrial) disaster management in India, discusses some important key issues, identifies gray areas needing recuperation and presents future trends and challenges.